6.3.3
Provision of Free Drinking Water
The University of Thessaly (UTh) affirms its commitment to ensuring free, safe, and sustainable access to drinking water for all members of the academic community, in accordance with public health standards and environmental sustainability principles.
This policy establishes the framework for the installation, maintenance, and management of free drinking water points across all University campuses and facilities.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
Guarantee the right to free and safe drinking water for all students, staff, and visitors of the University.
Reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles by promoting refillable water solutions.
Ensure the quality, safety, and accessibility of drinking water in compliance with national and EU regulations.
Support SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through sustainable practices.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy complies with:
Directive (EU) 2020/2184 on the quality of water intended for human consumption,
Greek Law 3199/2003 on water protection and management,
Joint Ministerial Decision Υ2/2600/2001 and its amendments on drinking water quality,
Presidential Decree 51/2007 (transposing Directive 2000/60/EC)
Scope
This policy applies to:
All campuses, faculties, research centers, and administrative buildings of the University.
All members of the academic community, including students, academic staff, administrative personnel, and visitors.
Key Provisions
- Provision and Access
The University ensures free access to potable water through adequately distributed water fountains, dispensers, and taps in all academic and administrative buildings.
All drinking water points must be clearly marked, accessible, and hygienically maintained.
New buildings and major renovations must include integrated drinking water infrastructure in their design specifications.
- Water Quality and Safety
Drinking water must meet or exceed the quality standards of Directive (EU) 2020/2184 and Greek sanitary regulations.
The Technical Services Department conducts regular monitoring and laboratory testing of water quality (microbiological, chemical, and physical parameters).
Any deviation from safe standards triggers immediate corrective actions and public notification.
- Environmental Sustainability
The University promotes the use of refillable containers to reduce single-use plastics.
Bottled water sales are discouraged within campus cafeterias and vending machines, except where necessary for accessibility or health reasons.
The University encourages suppliers to use eco-friendly water filtration systems and maintain energy-efficient dispensers.
- Awareness and Education
The University conducts awareness campaigns to promote hydration, environmental sustainability, and plastic reduction.
Students and staff are encouraged to participate in initiatives supporting the “Refill UTh” program, which promotes reusable water bottles and campus refill points.
- Monitoring and Reporting
The Technical Services Department compiles an annual report on the status, accessibility, and quality of drinking water infrastructure across all campuses.
Reports are published on the University Sustainability Portal, ensuring transparency and public accountability.
Governance
Responsible Authority: Rector.
Operational Oversight: Technical Services Department.
Monitoring: Office of Environmental Sustainability.
Consultation: University Health and Safety Committee.
Review
This policy shall be reviewed every three years or when significant regulatory or infrastructure changes occur.
Through this policy, the University of Thessaly reaffirms its dedication to sustainability, public health, and equitable access to safe drinking water for all.